Cardiff Defeats Dragons in 10th Year of Derby Dominance

Cardiff extended their dominance over the Dragons with a 20th consecutive league win in a thrilling United Rugby Championship (URC) derby in Newport. Despite an early 15-0 lead from the Dragons, Cardiff mounted a comeback to secure a bonus-point victory. Dragons’ tries from Aaron Wainwright and Rio Dyer gave them the advantage but Cardiff responded with scores from Teddy Williams, Josh Adams and Gabriel Hamer-Webb.

Rhodri Williams briefly restored the Dragons’ lead but Cardiff’s Evan Lloyd sealed the win with a late try. The victory, which stretches Cardiff’s unbeaten league streak against the Dragons to 10 years, lifts them to third in the URC table while the Dragons remain at the bottom following their seventh consecutive league defeat. Cardiff’s resilience was tested early as Dragons dominated with strong runs from Wainwright and Dyer.

Despite the early onslaught, Cardiff responded with a try from Wales lock Williams, cutting the deficit to 10 points by halftime. In the second half, Adams scored his fourth try in three games and Hamer-Webb added another to give Cardiff the lead. The Dragons fought back with Rhodri Williams’ try but Cardiff’s patience paid off as Lloyd’s driving score sealed the win.

Dragons’ interim head coach Matt O’Brien expressed frustration at their discipline issues which cost them crucial tries. Cardiff’s head coach Matt Sherratt acknowledged the difficulty of playing at Rodney Parade and praised the competitive nature of the derby which showcased the intensity of Welsh rugby. With the win, Cardiff continues their dominance in this fixture while the Dragons face further challenges as they search for consistency.